Need The Toilet During The Night? You May Be Suffering From Nocturia

'Don't suffer in silence.'

If you find yourself needing to go to the loo during the night, you're not alone.

Nocturia - the medical term for this unpleasant sensation - is thought to be the most common cause of sleep disturbance.

Research suggests three quarters of people who complain of a disturbed night’s sleep cite nocturia as the cause of them waking up.

To mark World Sleep Day, we find out what causes the condition and what you can do to limit it.

PhotoAlto/Frederic Cirou via Getty Images

What Causes Nocturia?

According to researchers as Ferring Pharmaceuticals, nocturia can be caused by an overproduction of urine at night or an overproduction of urine during the day time and night time, which leads to having to get up in the night to go to the toilet.

This is often explained by an abnormal rhythm of the body where large amounts of urine is excreted during sleep.

The condition can also be caused by external factors such as excess fluids before bedtime, medications, alcohol or caffeine.

In rare cases, nocturia can also be a symptom of something more serious such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease.

Who Does Nocturia Effect?

Up to 60% of elderly men and women display symptoms of nocturia, but it can affect all ages.

Thankfully, behavioural changes such as altering the times you drink liquid, having an afternoon nap and wearing compression stockings can reduce symptoms of nocturia for many people.

Various medications for an overactive bladder are also available. If you're suffering from nocturia, visit your GP to discuss the best options for you.

Philip van Kerrebroeck, editor of the Nocturia Resource Centre, commented: "Nocturia is a serious issue that should not go ignored by the public.

"It can affect anyone regardless of age or gender but the good news is that it is treatable. We would therefore encourage anyone who is losing sleep over these symptoms to speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

"There is no need to suffer in silence."

Worst Foods For Sleep

Worst Foods For Sleep

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8

Coffee

We probably don't have to explain why you shouldn't reach for an espresso at 10 p.m. But, turns out, your afternoon coffee habit can affect you for longer than you'd expect. In fact, that caffeine can remain in your system for hours, making even a 4 p.m. pick-me-up a bad idea. Baron recommends steering clear by the early afternoon.
And don't forget coffee-flavored treats, she warns. Your favorite cappuccino-flavored ice cream can give you a surprisingly strong jolt.
Of course, you've probably heard that a little tea before bed is a good idea. The caffeine content is smaller than in coffee, and herbal "sleepy time" varieties often contain sleep-promoting herbs like valerian or chamomile that can, indeed, help you nod off.